Starting off in the 19th century, Czech-Republic automaker Skoda started out as a two-wheeler manufacturer. Originally it made bicycles in the mid 1890’s then went on to produce motorcycles in 1899. The brand made its first car, the Voiturrrete A in 1905.
While it was a fairly successful automaker on its own, Skoda reached new heights after Volkswagen acquired the brand in the year 1991. Today, it is one of the most valuable and successful brands under VW’s banner, producing over 8 lakh vehicles in 2021. In India, the company has also had a fruitful run ever since it entered the market over 2 decades ago. While there was a dip in sales and popularity, Skoda is currently taking on the Indian market with a fresh approach. Today we have this short guide to Skoda cars in India.
When did Skoda come to India?
Skoda entered the country at the end of 2001 with its Octavia sedan. It was also the first made-in-India offering from the brand. Attractive European design, frugal diesel powertrain option, good handling and aggressive pricing made Skoda Octavia an instant hit in India. Over the last two decades, the brand has both grown and declined in sales. While the likes of the Octavia and the Superb were successful, the likes of the Fabia hatchback and the quirky Yeti failed to strike a chord with the Indian audience.
Skoda product lineup in India
Skoda currently has 5 models in its product portfolio for India, 2 SUVs, the Kushaq and Kodiaq and 3 Sedans, the Slavia, Octavia and the Superb. All models have been recently launched as part of the brand’s ‘India 2.0’ plan, a reset of the automaker’s operations in India as it hopes to establish a profitable and sustainable business.
Read Also: Upcoming Skoda EVs You Should Be Excited For
Which is the smallest Skoda car in India?
The smallest Skoda car in India is the Kushaq SUV. It was launched last year as part of the brand’s aforementioned ‘India 2.0’ plan. It is based on VW group’s MQB-A0-IN platform, which has been specially developed for India to keep the prices down by sourcing parts locally. Its attractive European design, feature-rich and spacious interior alongside multiple powertrain choices make the Kushaq a great choice if you’re looking for a mid-size SUV but don’t want the obvious choices.
Prices for the Skoda Kushaq start from Rs 11.59 lakh for the 1.0 TSI Active variant, going up to Rs 19.69 lakh for the flagship 1.5 TSI Monte Carlo DSG trim. Visit CarLelo’s dedicated Kushaq page for more details.
Read Also: Skoda Kushaq - The most awaited SUV car of the decade
Most expensive Skoda car in India
The automaker’s other SUV offering in India, the Kodiaq, is the most expensive Skoda model currently in the country. It is a full-size SUV that rivals the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster and Jeep’s Meridian. The Kodiaq got an update for 2022 that saw it getting a minor styling upgrade, some feature additions, and an all-new powertrain. This includes sharper LED headlights and taillights, dynamic turn indicators and a revised front bumper on the exterior. Moving to the inside, there’s a new 2-spoke steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, an updated touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats, and a new 12-speaker audio setup from CANTON.
The biggest change in the 2022 Skoda Kodiaq is the new 2-litre TSI turbo-petrol motor replacing the old 2-litre turbo diesel. The new unit makes a maximum power output of 188 bhp with 320 Nm of peak torque. Transmission duty is handled by a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox.
Kodiaq prices start from Rs 37.49 lakh for the Style variant and go all the way up to Rs 39.99 lakh for the L&K trim. If you’re interested in buying the Skoda SUV, then head over to Carlelo for the best deals and offers.
Read Also: Skoda Kodiaq- A New Species of SUV
One fact about Skoda
The Skoda Superb front doors house one umbrella each, a feature inspired by Rolls-Royce’s Phantom.
